The Marion Affordable Housing Trust met on Tuesday, June 10, to go over the results of the Town Meeting’s votes on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and short-term rentals (STRs). Select Board member and representative to the trust Norm Hills began the meeting by discussing his worry over the passed ADU bylaw. Sympathizing with this was Member Eileen J. Marum, saying “Airbnbs have full reign” when referring to problems with residentially zoned areas being used for business. To reverse this decision, and change what was voted upon, it was agreed by Hills and the trust members that it can only be changed/reversed at a future Town Meeting.
The trust then discussed updating their website and increasing social media engagement. Associate Member Roberta “Robbie” Dunn Tracy stated “I’ve done my homework” before describing to the panel various community outreach capabilities they can engage with using both the town website as well as Facebook. Using Facebook, Tracy stated it would be beneficial to post quick updates or get instant feedback from the community, if required. Town of Marion Facebook page began posting in 2019 and currently post irregular updates, typically around twice per week, reminding residents of local events or posting pictures following an events completion. It was stated at the end of this discussion Robbie would be the person to speak to regarding website updates, as she would pass them on to the Executive Assistant to the Town Administrator Donna Hemphill, who is in charge of the town’s website and Facebook.
The trust also discussed national and state-wide issues, with one member stating, “apparently HUD (US Department of Housing and Urban Development) is a disaster.” There are multiple states working on lawsuits with much uncertainty regarding changes in regulation and policy, as well as funding changes.
The Marion Affordable Housing Trust moved on to discuss reorganization although without member Toby Ast present, it was stated they should possibly table discussions until the next meeting; especially considering he may desire to be Chair.
The next meeting of the Marion Affordable Housing Trust is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8 at 6:00 pm in the Marion Police Station.
Marion Affordable Housing Trust
By Sam Bishop